madhu February 27th, 2009
Wearing dentures may require a little adjusting to at first, but when fitted properly, may take only a few hours to get used to.
Caring for the dentures
The following daily routine can help keep dentures (full or partial) clean and the mouth healthy:
- Rest your mouth – remove dentures at least a few hours each day.
- Store dentures in a container filled with water so they don’t dry out.
- Rinse dentures in water to get food particles out.
- Do not use hot water to clean dentures.
- Rinse over a sink filled with water to prevent breakage if they are dropped. Placing a washcloth at the bottom of the sink will provide padding in case they are dropped.
- Clean dentures by brushing daily and soaking. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or one made for dentures.
- Never try to repair a broken denture – call the dentist.
- Label dentures and denture cup, especially in a shared living/hospital/long-term care environment.
madhu February 27th, 2009
Continued good oral health care – from daily brushing and flossing to
regular dental visits – will help the older adult keep a healthy smile, and can also contribute to good overall health.
WHAT CAN CAUSE OR CONTRIBUTE TO TOOTH DECAY IN AN OLDER ADULT
Unable to squeeze a tube of toothpaste
Again, a lack of strength because of arthritis, stroke, loss of dexterity or other physical limitation can make this usually simple task become a chore.
SOLUTION: To make squeezing the toothpaste tube easier, place the opened tube of toothpaste on the sink, slightly over the edge of the basin. Hold or place the toothbrush in the sink underneath, and using fingers or the side of the hand, gently press the tube to squeeze out the toothpaste. There are also toothpaste products that are available in a pump dispenser – these may be easier to use and can be purchased at most retail supermarkets or drugstores. These may work best for older adults who are unable to remove the cap from the tube of toothpaste. Also, toothpaste dispensers that easily put the correct amount of toothpaste on the brush are available online. Simply do a search for “toothpaste dispensers.”
